Mardi Gras is finally here, and that means a number of things. Though Mardi Gras is the time when traffic is at its worst and there are limited restroom options, it’s also a time for family, friends, parades and, most importantly, traditional festival food.

For the uninformed, a king cake is a traditional New Orleans dessert. It is served during Mardi Gras, made of bread topped with icing and sprinkles in traditional Mardi Gras colors: green, purple and yellow. These holiday treats come with a multitude of fillings such as cream cheese, apple and strawberry.

If you want get a taste of Mardi Gras and don’t mind spending a few extra dollars, then make sure to head to Gambino’s Bakery or Haydel’s Bakery. Gambino’s Bakery is the self-proclaimed “King of king cakes.” The title is rightly deserved. Made with Danish dough and topped off with special fondant icing, Gambino’s specialty king cakes capture the Mardi Gras season in every bite.

Haydel’s Bakery is known for its specialty cakes, and its king cakes are no exception. Haydel’s king cakes are distinctive because the bakery provides many options when it comes to size, filling and design. If you want to break away from the traditional yellow, green and purple icing, you can order a black and gold king cake to show your support for the New Orleans Saints or a pink ribbon king cake in support of breast cancer awareness.

If you’re on a budget and unable to pay for a specialty king cake, you can still purchase college-budget friendly options by stopping by your local Rouses or Whole Foods. The king cakes at Rouses and Whole Foods are readily made so you can grab one and go about your day with delicious cake in tow. Whether it’s for a Mardi Gras party or because you just so happened to get the baby last time, make sure to stop by any one of these locations to taste the true spirit of Mardi Gras in New Orleans.